Alternative Tour Amsterdam | Drugs Story, Street Art & More
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our Alternative Tour offers an insight into Amsterdam's counterculture, like the squatting culture, hippies, and LGBTQ history. It covers the street art scene and takes us into the genuine heart of the city: The Jordaan neighborhood.
Our certified guides are real Amsterdammers and true ambassadors of the city. Our team consists of history teachers, culture vultures, and true gastronomes, making sure we can offer you an experience that is unmatched by the standard tour operator or guidebook.
On top of learning about the alternative side of Amsterdam, our guides will advise you on which places to visit while in the city, where to wine and dine, and what tourist traps to avoid.
Join us, and get the most out of your Amsterdam experience.
Available options
Tip-Based Alternative Tour
Duration: 2 hours: Dive into Amsterdam's historic counterculture on this English-guided tour, and tip the guide according to your experience.
Alternative Amsterdam | Drugs Story, Street Art & Counterculture
What's included
English-speaking guide
Engaging storytelling by licensed guide
An educational dive into the city's counterculture
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Our tour starts at the National Monument on Dam square, close to where Amsterdam was founded. Our tour also ends here.
2
Stop 2
Originally built as a town hall, the historic palace is the most culturally significant building of the Netherlands. A visit is highly recommended after the tour and can be booked on the Royal Palace website.
3
Stop 3
Explore the captivating neighborhood of Jordaan in Amsterdam and immerse yourself in its rich history and irresistible charm.
Walk along its narrow streets lined with cozy cafes, art studios, and independent boutiques, and uncover the stories of rebellious artists, working-class heroes, and the struggles of a bygone era.
4
Stop 4
Amsterdam is famed as a liberal city, but it wasn't always like this. Stop at Amsterdam's Gay Monument and pay tribute to the LGBTQ people who were persecuted because of their gender or sexual preference.
5
Stop 5
We will stop at various locations showcasing Amsterdam's street art, graffiti & houseboats. As of 2020, tour operators aren't allowed inside the Red Light District, however, we do cover the subject and its relevant backstory.
What's not included
Food and Beverages, (bring some water)
Transportation (we walk everything)
Entry into the Red Light District (tour groups are restricted from entering)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.4
9 reviews
5★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Recommended for adults (topics include prostitution & soft drugs policy), or teenagers under supervision.
No catching up with the group if you are late (please book a new time slot)
Meeting point
Meet us 10 minutes before the tour starts, in front of the National Monument. You'll recognize us by the white umbrella with an orange logo.
Please don't message or call us if you are late, there is no catching up with the group after the start time and the guides can't be reached during the tour.
Important notes
Please don't message or call us if you are late, there is no catching up with the group after the start time and the guides can't be reached during the tour.
Meet us 10 minutes before time at the meeting point, your guide can be recognized by a white umbrella with an orange Walking Tour logo on it. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather; rain or snow, we always go!
About Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is renowned for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Known as the 'Venice of the North,' the city offers a rich blend of art, history, and modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch national museum dedicated to arts and history. It houses an extensive collection of paintings, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Museum
2-3 hours
€20
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. It houses the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings and drawings in the world.
Museum
1.5-2 hours
€20
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. The building is where Anne Frank and her family hid from Nazi persecution during World War II.
Historical
1 hour
€16
Dam Square
Dam Square is the central square of Amsterdam and a historic site. It is home to the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and various other landmarks.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Jordaan
Jordaan is a picturesque and lively neighborhood known for its narrow streets, canals, and vibrant atmosphere. It is a great place to explore, shop, and dine.
Neighborhood
A few hours to explore
Free to explore, varies for shopping and dining
Must-Try Local Dishes
Stroopwafel
A thin, round waffle made from two layers of baked dough joined by a caramel-like syrup filling
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains wheat and sugar
Bitterballen
Deep-fried, crispy balls filled with a creamy, spiced ragout, typically made from beef or veal
Snack
Contains meat, gluten, and dairy
Haring
Raw herring fish, traditionally served with onions and pickles, eaten by holding the fish by its tail and lowering it into your mouth
Dish
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians
Poffertjes
Miniature pancakes made from a batter of flour, eggs, milk, and yeast, served with powdered sugar and butter
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains wheat, eggs, and dairy
Popular Activities
Canal kayaking
Bike tours
Escape rooms
Canal cruises
Visiting parks and gardens
Spa and wellness treatments
Museum visits
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak tourist season in Amsterdam is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, but it's also the busiest and most expensive period.
15°C to 22°C
59°F to 72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dutch
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution
Amsterdam is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bike theft, can occur, particularly in tourist areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport
- • Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey
Getting there
By air
- Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 17.5 km from city center
By train
Amsterdam Centraal
By bus
Amsterdam Sloterdijk, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Getting around
Public transport
Amsterdam's tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with 14 day and night tram lines. A single ticket costs €3.20, and day passes are available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Amsterdam
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Jordaan
De Pijp
De Wallen (Red Light District)
Museumplein
Amsterdam-Noord
Day trips
Zaanse Schans
20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day
A picturesque and open-air museum featuring traditional Dutch houses, windmills, and workshops, showcasing the history and craftsmanship of the region.
Haarlem
20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day
A charming and historic city known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and vibrant cultural scene, often considered a smaller and more relaxed version of Amsterdam.
Utrecht
50 km from Amsterdam • Full day
A vibrant and historic city known for its beautiful canals, medieval architecture, and lively cultural scene, with a unique and charming atmosphere.
Festivals
King's Day (Koningsdag) • April 27 (or April 26 if the 27th is a Sunday)
Amsterdam Pride • Late July to early August
Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) • Mid-October
Pro tips
- Use the OV-chipkaart for seamless and convenient public transport
- Rent a bike to explore the city like a local, but be aware of cycling rules and etiquette
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm
- Try local specialties, such as stroopwafels, bitterballen, and Dutch pancakes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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